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Nikki #4
Mars Colony Agatha: Nikki Red
Nicole Janicek already has stared down a high school shooter, a cult of criminal ex-Scientologists and six months of frigid darkness at South Pole Station in her young life, but now she risks it all attempting to ride a rocket to Mars in 2022. After the Red One mission quickly aborts in the skies over the North Sea, Nikki gets a surprise phone call from Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX. What follows is a euphoric, historic, tragic and heroic mission to establish Mars Colony A, dubbed by some in the media as “Mars Colony Agatha” when misfortune strikes. While doubters predict the perilous mission will morph into “And Then There Were None” by Agatha Christie, Nikki and her crew are determined to write their own story. Through it all, Nikki is surprised to learn how strong her connection to those she loved on Earth remains despite the chasm of time and space.
- GenresScience Fiction
252 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 25, 2019
4 people are currently reading
571 people want to read
About the author
Jack Chaucer
10 books169 followersJack penned the four-book Nikki Janicek novel series, a genre-bending, unpredictable ride from Lakes of the Clouds Hut in the White Mountains of New Hampshire ("Streaks of Blue," 2013) all the way to deep space ("Mars Colony Agatha: Nikki Red," 2019), with many interesting stops along the way ("Nikki Blue: Source of Trouble," 2015, and "Nikki White: Polar Extremes," 2017). Chaucer also has written the mythological tale "Revenge to the Tennth Power" (2018), the children's book "The Password Is Wishpers" (2017), the political sci-fi thriller "Queens are Wild" (2012) and the rock 'n roll novella "Freeway and the Vin Numbers" (2010), as well as the short stories "Afterlife University" (2023) and "heroinE" (2016). He lives in Litchfield, Connecticut, USA, with his wife and twin 14-year-olds.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
October 20, 2019
I have to admit I have not read the previous books in this series of novels written by Jack Chaucer. However, I was very happy to see that this one was a stand-alone that gave hints of the main characters past just to fill the reader in as to what she has been through to get to where she is.
A futuristic, but a very realistic journey that I think one nowadays can identify with having just heard about the spacewalks that took place at the space station.
This novel is very well written and fast paced, taking the reader on an exceptionally exciting journey outside this world and to new beginnings.
Highly recommended!
I’d like to thank the author and GR for Offering this book in a giveaway.
A futuristic, but a very realistic journey that I think one nowadays can identify with having just heard about the spacewalks that took place at the space station.
This novel is very well written and fast paced, taking the reader on an exceptionally exciting journey outside this world and to new beginnings.
Highly recommended!
I’d like to thank the author and GR for Offering this book in a giveaway.
July 7, 2019
Before I talk fiction, a quick fact: Former NFL coach Bill Parcells once called me a jerk for asking what he considered a “dumbass” question during a televised post-game press conference.
Upon reflection, I think Nikki Janicek, the main character in my novel series, would call me Jerk Chaucer for what I’ve put her through over the span of four books.
This series leads Nikki and the reader on a survive-or-die thrill ride that bends genres, warps characters, loses gravity, alters hair color but always remains relevant to the hot topics of today. The journey is emotional, unpredictable and increasingly human, even as the settings become more alien and deadly.
Before I get to the latest book, which officially comes out November 1, 2019, I’ll give you a quick summary of the first three:
STREAKS OF BLUE — the first one, written in the months right after Newtown and sadly still relevant today — puts Nikki in the scary position of attempting to derail a shooting plot at her New Hampshire high school. Can one person, one friendship really make a difference?
NIKKI BLUE: SOURCE OF TROUBLE, the sequel, has Nikki interning as a reporter at the newspaper where I still work, the Republican-American in Waterbury. Her first reporting assignment is to cover a church groundbreaking, except “the church” is actually a cult of criminal ex-Scientologists. They’re obsessed with climate change, population control and the race to colonize Mars. Yeah, things don’t go well for Nikki when she gets entangled with The Bridge group, as they’re called.
NIKKI WHITE: POLAR EXTREMES, the third book, has Nikki still under The Bridge’s control and forced to train for a mission to Mars. The setting is dark winter at South Pole Station, Antarctica. Nothing like six months of isolation and darkness to work through your issues with the person you fear most in the world.
And finally, MARS COLONY AGATHA: NIKKI RED, my new book. Nikki gets a surprise phone call from Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX. Will Nikki and her six-person crew survive liftoff, the burn to Mars and the “six minutes of terror” attempting to become the first humans to land on the Red Planet? Even if they do, will they find a way to survive and live on Mars? Or will the mission turn into AND THEN THERE WERE NONE by Agatha Christie?
Ultimately, this series is about courage in the face of danger, redemption for even the most troubled characters, the power of friendship and, yes, love prevailing over hate, time and space. Could there be a little romance?
Nikki would say, there better be, Jerk Chaucer!!
ARCs are now available upon request!!!
Upon reflection, I think Nikki Janicek, the main character in my novel series, would call me Jerk Chaucer for what I’ve put her through over the span of four books.
This series leads Nikki and the reader on a survive-or-die thrill ride that bends genres, warps characters, loses gravity, alters hair color but always remains relevant to the hot topics of today. The journey is emotional, unpredictable and increasingly human, even as the settings become more alien and deadly.
Before I get to the latest book, which officially comes out November 1, 2019, I’ll give you a quick summary of the first three:
STREAKS OF BLUE — the first one, written in the months right after Newtown and sadly still relevant today — puts Nikki in the scary position of attempting to derail a shooting plot at her New Hampshire high school. Can one person, one friendship really make a difference?
NIKKI BLUE: SOURCE OF TROUBLE, the sequel, has Nikki interning as a reporter at the newspaper where I still work, the Republican-American in Waterbury. Her first reporting assignment is to cover a church groundbreaking, except “the church” is actually a cult of criminal ex-Scientologists. They’re obsessed with climate change, population control and the race to colonize Mars. Yeah, things don’t go well for Nikki when she gets entangled with The Bridge group, as they’re called.
NIKKI WHITE: POLAR EXTREMES, the third book, has Nikki still under The Bridge’s control and forced to train for a mission to Mars. The setting is dark winter at South Pole Station, Antarctica. Nothing like six months of isolation and darkness to work through your issues with the person you fear most in the world.
And finally, MARS COLONY AGATHA: NIKKI RED, my new book. Nikki gets a surprise phone call from Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX. Will Nikki and her six-person crew survive liftoff, the burn to Mars and the “six minutes of terror” attempting to become the first humans to land on the Red Planet? Even if they do, will they find a way to survive and live on Mars? Or will the mission turn into AND THEN THERE WERE NONE by Agatha Christie?
Ultimately, this series is about courage in the face of danger, redemption for even the most troubled characters, the power of friendship and, yes, love prevailing over hate, time and space. Could there be a little romance?
Nikki would say, there better be, Jerk Chaucer!!
ARCs are now available upon request!!!
October 4, 2019
spoilery maybe
"No matter how it goes, just live it... and embrace the rush"
I haven't read many scifi books in the past years. Last year i tried and failed, I 1-star-rated a overhyped scifi ya book and my fantasy gap ended two book later. It was not my time. But the "martian" experience in MCA may change things from now on.
I really liked this book though it doesn't directly follow the events in the previous books, it's very lovely and emotional.
The first half made me cry and the second half made me smile like a fool.
As always, there are musical references and I felt so honored when Jack told me i'm the first person on earth (and mars) that has read Nikki Red after reading the provious books. I got many of the references to books 1,2 and 3 and it was very nice to see the original trio (that were not so close friends by book 1) sharing such an emotional scene as they did in chapter 10. Also seeing Thomas and Adam moving on after Nikki left off to Mars, was very wholesome.
I liked the space setting and everything felt pretty real for me. The experience of bein on Mars was different this time (and i felt it realer than Damien Chazelle's First Man lol). I loved the crew and their interactions and i have no words to explain how much i ship Jo and Sunny.
I also loved to see Nikki's love life coming to a pleasing climax and having a nice time in mars with her new family. I cried.
I was hoping to see any mention of Nikki's bestfriend from books 1 and 2, Candace, and former exboyfriend Dereck, but it didn't happen. And that is SO good. Sometimes in life we have friends and special people but something happens and then we're not close to them anymore or even talk to them, and that made the story very human.
I liked the simple but powerfull plot and all of the characters.
This was very relaxing and calming.
Thanks one more time, Jack, for everything, but mostly for giving Adam a nice endgame and keeping him safe. I'm very soft and moved. Thanks again.
It's been a long day without you, my friend
And I'll tell you all about it when I see you again
We've come a long way from where we began
Oh I'll tell you all about it when I see you again
When I see you again
"No matter how it goes, just live it... and embrace the rush"
I haven't read many scifi books in the past years. Last year i tried and failed, I 1-star-rated a overhyped scifi ya book and my fantasy gap ended two book later. It was not my time. But the "martian" experience in MCA may change things from now on.
I really liked this book though it doesn't directly follow the events in the previous books, it's very lovely and emotional.
The first half made me cry and the second half made me smile like a fool.
As always, there are musical references and I felt so honored when Jack told me i'm the first person on earth (and mars) that has read Nikki Red after reading the provious books. I got many of the references to books 1,2 and 3 and it was very nice to see the original trio (that were not so close friends by book 1) sharing such an emotional scene as they did in chapter 10. Also seeing Thomas and Adam moving on after Nikki left off to Mars, was very wholesome.
I liked the space setting and everything felt pretty real for me. The experience of bein on Mars was different this time (and i felt it realer than Damien Chazelle's First Man lol). I loved the crew and their interactions and i have no words to explain how much i ship Jo and Sunny.
I also loved to see Nikki's love life coming to a pleasing climax and having a nice time in mars with her new family. I cried.
I was hoping to see any mention of Nikki's bestfriend from books 1 and 2, Candace, and former exboyfriend Dereck, but it didn't happen. And that is SO good. Sometimes in life we have friends and special people but something happens and then we're not close to them anymore or even talk to them, and that made the story very human.
I liked the simple but powerfull plot and all of the characters.
This was very relaxing and calming.
Thanks one more time, Jack, for everything, but mostly for giving Adam a nice endgame and keeping him safe. I'm very soft and moved. Thanks again.
It's been a long day without you, my friend
And I'll tell you all about it when I see you again
We've come a long way from where we began
Oh I'll tell you all about it when I see you again
When I see you again
December 28, 2019
I really wanted to love this one. I went into it not realising it was part of a series, so I found myself lost in numerous back story/plots. The first half of the book was fine. Once I hit the middle it started to feel rushed and a bit disjointed. It could’ve been me because I was lost and it was not much before the middle part of the book that I’d found out it was part of a series.
I wish I’d have known before reading because I might have picked up the books from the beginning.
The ending just wasn’t for me. It missing something.
I honestly HATE writing any type of review such as this.
The story was interesting. I’d suggest starting at the very beginning. And I will note that if I do go back to give the first book a try, I’ll be sure to update this review should it be needed.
I wish I’d have known before reading because I might have picked up the books from the beginning.
The ending just wasn’t for me. It missing something.
I honestly HATE writing any type of review such as this.
The story was interesting. I’d suggest starting at the very beginning. And I will note that if I do go back to give the first book a try, I’ll be sure to update this review should it be needed.
September 4, 2022
1 star. This book did not do it for me. When a story has no conflict, adversity to overcome besides reaching a destination, no character growth, it is hard to read.
Nikki's dream has always been to travel to space. This book started with that dream realized. She got invited by Elon Musk to travel to Mars after a recent failed attempt. If the book ended here, I would have been happy. However, it continued, and Nikki had no obstacle to overcome. She hopped on a transport vehicle to Mars, got there unscathed, got married and had a baby, the end! Her crew mates had more colourful story, I gave up on Nikki and started rooting for Sunny to overcome cancer.
Also, some characters that did nothing to move the story forward, Adam, Valentina, Thomas...they took up room on the page but I didn't see why they were part of the story.
I gave this book a chance and read every page, hoping it will pick up, but unfortunately it did not, it is a 1 star for me.
Nikki's dream has always been to travel to space. This book started with that dream realized. She got invited by Elon Musk to travel to Mars after a recent failed attempt. If the book ended here, I would have been happy. However, it continued, and Nikki had no obstacle to overcome. She hopped on a transport vehicle to Mars, got there unscathed, got married and had a baby, the end! Her crew mates had more colourful story, I gave up on Nikki and started rooting for Sunny to overcome cancer.
Also, some characters that did nothing to move the story forward, Adam, Valentina, Thomas...they took up room on the page but I didn't see why they were part of the story.
I gave this book a chance and read every page, hoping it will pick up, but unfortunately it did not, it is a 1 star for me.
April 11, 2020
I will start by saying that this book is Fourth and final book in the Nikki Red series by Mr. Chaucer and I have yet to read the preceding three books in the series. While I have not read the other books, the final chapter of Nikki Red's series summaries, or at least alludes to, what happened before including Nikki's high school years, her training in Antarctica and her less then friendly relationship with Dr. Peter and his family. This story focuses on Nikki and her crew's "successful" journey to Mars under the financial backing of Mr. Elon Musk and become the first humans to set foot on the planet. While at Mar's South Pole, Nikki's crew establishes their base and succeed in discovering and processing drinkable water. While on Mars however, the crew has its own share of issues not to mention Dr. Peter has escaped from prison and is on the second ship to Mars with his family. Will Nikki and Peter get along?
As more crews and ships arrive, a love interest of Nikki's makes an appearance and they soon fall back in love and develop a relationship with surprising results. All of what is happening is videoed and sent to Earth and to the people they love. Mr. Chaucer has created a well established universe in these books and fills it with both likable characters and pop and music culture references. The plot is not only believable, but also potentially, and hopefully, possible in the near future. It was sad, funny and it is definitely worth a read.
**I received a copy from a Goodreads giveaway.
As more crews and ships arrive, a love interest of Nikki's makes an appearance and they soon fall back in love and develop a relationship with surprising results. All of what is happening is videoed and sent to Earth and to the people they love. Mr. Chaucer has created a well established universe in these books and fills it with both likable characters and pop and music culture references. The plot is not only believable, but also potentially, and hopefully, possible in the near future. It was sad, funny and it is definitely worth a read.
**I received a copy from a Goodreads giveaway.
October 15, 2019
"Don't reach for the moon, we're going to Mars"
"Forget the lies, remember the truth
Sing something if it means something to you
Invest in the love, give it your best
Follow what's in the left side of your chest
Be ready for highs, be ready for lows
A dream is a dream until you go
Make some mistakes, don't forget who you are
Don't reach for the moon, we're going to Mars!"
(Lyrics excerpt from "Going to Mars" by Judah & The Lion)
© Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
These lyrics reminded me so much of the personality and attitude of the young protagonist Nikki Janicek, and the overall feel of the story. What a comfortable, believable, satisfying read this book was. Intelligent science fiction, yet not confusing, or overwhelming, simply enjoyable. May be read as a standalone easily, but I would recommend reading the previous novels for maximum enjoyment. I know I'm going to.
The author skillfully pulls you on deck with the crew. The other characters in the story are lively, Interesting and easy to care about. I hope Mr. Chaucer writes more in this series, because he's so good with this universe. In this book, the story flowed and didn't feel forced. His characters were alive and unique; he allowed them simply to be, naturally, not forcing them to fit in a mold.
I will be reading anything that has Jack Chaucer's name on it from now on.
"Forget the lies, remember the truth
Sing something if it means something to you
Invest in the love, give it your best
Follow what's in the left side of your chest
Be ready for highs, be ready for lows
A dream is a dream until you go
Make some mistakes, don't forget who you are
Don't reach for the moon, we're going to Mars!"
(Lyrics excerpt from "Going to Mars" by Judah & The Lion)
© Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
These lyrics reminded me so much of the personality and attitude of the young protagonist Nikki Janicek, and the overall feel of the story. What a comfortable, believable, satisfying read this book was. Intelligent science fiction, yet not confusing, or overwhelming, simply enjoyable. May be read as a standalone easily, but I would recommend reading the previous novels for maximum enjoyment. I know I'm going to.
The author skillfully pulls you on deck with the crew. The other characters in the story are lively, Interesting and easy to care about. I hope Mr. Chaucer writes more in this series, because he's so good with this universe. In this book, the story flowed and didn't feel forced. His characters were alive and unique; he allowed them simply to be, naturally, not forcing them to fit in a mold.
I will be reading anything that has Jack Chaucer's name on it from now on.
October 2, 2019
In MARS COLONY AGATHA: NIKKI RED, author Jack Chaucer’s series heroine, astronaut Nikki Janicek, takes a one-way voyage on an Elon Musk sponsored trip to Mars without fully escaping her past trauma
.
Nikki is a fierce, feminist role model, who in previous books saved her high school classmates from a school shooting and survived nearly freezing to death in Antarctica.
Mr. Chaucer writes a very well researched space travel book with realistic dialogue. It is so well written that at times it is hard to remember that it is a work of fiction.
.
Nikki is a fierce, feminist role model, who in previous books saved her high school classmates from a school shooting and survived nearly freezing to death in Antarctica.
Mr. Chaucer writes a very well researched space travel book with realistic dialogue. It is so well written that at times it is hard to remember that it is a work of fiction.
October 23, 2019
I had a wild time reading and thinking on and about this final installment of this series. God it hurts to realize that what I love has ended but i'm so glad to see the journey through from beginning to end. I held my breath and pushed away my sentiment to read this without tears because I knew it was the final book but I didn't want that to be the end of my journey with just that thought. I have been a huge, huge fan since the first book (which I won a free signed copy of, sadly I loaned it to a friend and her house burnt with it in it but I will never forget that journey.) Each book was better than the last and I cheered my way through them. At first I was never okay with the school shooting that hit real too close to home for me but Jack Chaucer changed my mind and made it a great book that wasn't going to make me scream about how hurtful it could have been to my feelings.
It's been a wonderful ride watching Nikki overcome all that she has been through and keep on moving forward. Each book had me in tears, laughing until my ribs hurt, truly fearful for the characters whom I had gotten attached to. From the school shooting Mars dream coming true. All of the characters along the way have added to the journey and each one added a part to Nikki we never would have known without them. Some we left behind, some came forward onto the next great adventure with us (some I wished had stayed behind).
In this final(god this word hurts my hearts) book, Nikki is one take off away from her dream of landing on Mars. I watched as it started off 'rocky' (in more ways than one) and then went into space. Dreams do come true, even if they have to take wide turns sometimes. I admit I sobbed as I read parts of this book. I got attached to the characters and there were tears of sadness and joy.
I could not have been more attached to a series or characters and I am now a life long fan of the author. I thank Jack Chaucer for this amazing series and taking me along on Nikki's journey. I thank him for giving me the motivation to chase my own dreams from step one to my final take off. It was a journey I will forever love. I am sad to see this amazing story end but I will say that it couldn't have ended any better then it did. I don't think anyone could have done it better. I'm sad to say Goodbye Nikki but glad to say Hello Agatha. Lets head on to the next Star Pattern.
It's been a wonderful ride watching Nikki overcome all that she has been through and keep on moving forward. Each book had me in tears, laughing until my ribs hurt, truly fearful for the characters whom I had gotten attached to. From the school shooting Mars dream coming true. All of the characters along the way have added to the journey and each one added a part to Nikki we never would have known without them. Some we left behind, some came forward onto the next great adventure with us (some I wished had stayed behind).
In this final(god this word hurts my hearts) book, Nikki is one take off away from her dream of landing on Mars. I watched as it started off 'rocky' (in more ways than one) and then went into space. Dreams do come true, even if they have to take wide turns sometimes. I admit I sobbed as I read parts of this book. I got attached to the characters and there were tears of sadness and joy.
I could not have been more attached to a series or characters and I am now a life long fan of the author. I thank Jack Chaucer for this amazing series and taking me along on Nikki's journey. I thank him for giving me the motivation to chase my own dreams from step one to my final take off. It was a journey I will forever love. I am sad to see this amazing story end but I will say that it couldn't have ended any better then it did. I don't think anyone could have done it better. I'm sad to say Goodbye Nikki but glad to say Hello Agatha. Lets head on to the next Star Pattern.
March 27, 2020
Your in it for the music
The science is believable. The character are real and exciting. The pacing was well done. Some of the moments were a little cheesy but the basic story was great. I received this book for free. The review is totally my own. The music is great.
The science is believable. The character are real and exciting. The pacing was well done. Some of the moments were a little cheesy but the basic story was great. I received this book for free. The review is totally my own. The music is great.
April 15, 2020
Excellent book!!!
October 21, 2019
I had such a hard time gathering my thoughts about this final installment of this series....because I knew it was the final book. I have been a huge, huge fan of this series since the first book and each one has gotten better and better. I believe I have stated before that I had thought this series was going in one direction after the first one and the storyline of a school shooting scenario but it turned into so, so much more.
It has been such a roller coaster watching Nikki overcome all that she has been through, it has been a highly emotional journey. Each book, I went from tears to laughing to fear to joy. From the school shooting plot, to the bridge fiasco, her training (which was brutal) to her failed takeoff to now her wildest dream coming true. All the characters along the way have added to her journey and each one was so pivotal in who she has become. While some were left back in earlier books, new ones only added to her journey.
In this final book....Nikki is one take off away from her dream....landing on Mars. However, her takeoff does not go as planned and she finds herself back on Earth. Until she gets the most unbelievable phone call from, THE Elon Musk. Musk wants her to join his crew in putting her on Mars. Naturally, Nikki wastes no time in accepting and she is on her way. Her crew and her bond immediately and seamlessly and I loved watching them all turn into a family.
Their trip from preparation to take-off, to landing and the heartache that follows had me at the edge of my seat. I needed Nikki to prevail....I needed to see her her dream come to fruition...I was not ready for yet another setback or disappointment!! So much happens from take off to the end of the book and all I will say is...my tears flowed freely and frequently...I smiled until my face hurt and my heart was happy for Nikki. Getting to Mars was her dream of dreams...and getting there she endured more then one person can take but she stood her ground and pushed on with her head held high. She matured in so many ways and became someone she could be proud of. Her life had purpose and she left no stone unturned. She made some enemies along the way and turned friends into family (including some enemies). She may have left behind Earth but found a whole new world on Mars. It was entrancing to see how life on Mars progressed over time and even more interesting seeing characters from past books popping back up - on Mars!!! The drama!!! I could not have been more attached to this series and I am quite fond of the author....I thank you Jack for this amazing series and taking me along on Nikki's journey. It was an "out of this world" experience!!! LOL....I am so very sad to see this amazing story end but I will say that it couldn't have ended any better then it did! Ciao Nikki!!!
It has been such a roller coaster watching Nikki overcome all that she has been through, it has been a highly emotional journey. Each book, I went from tears to laughing to fear to joy. From the school shooting plot, to the bridge fiasco, her training (which was brutal) to her failed takeoff to now her wildest dream coming true. All the characters along the way have added to her journey and each one was so pivotal in who she has become. While some were left back in earlier books, new ones only added to her journey.
In this final book....Nikki is one take off away from her dream....landing on Mars. However, her takeoff does not go as planned and she finds herself back on Earth. Until she gets the most unbelievable phone call from, THE Elon Musk. Musk wants her to join his crew in putting her on Mars. Naturally, Nikki wastes no time in accepting and she is on her way. Her crew and her bond immediately and seamlessly and I loved watching them all turn into a family.
Their trip from preparation to take-off, to landing and the heartache that follows had me at the edge of my seat. I needed Nikki to prevail....I needed to see her her dream come to fruition...I was not ready for yet another setback or disappointment!! So much happens from take off to the end of the book and all I will say is...my tears flowed freely and frequently...I smiled until my face hurt and my heart was happy for Nikki. Getting to Mars was her dream of dreams...and getting there she endured more then one person can take but she stood her ground and pushed on with her head held high. She matured in so many ways and became someone she could be proud of. Her life had purpose and she left no stone unturned. She made some enemies along the way and turned friends into family (including some enemies). She may have left behind Earth but found a whole new world on Mars. It was entrancing to see how life on Mars progressed over time and even more interesting seeing characters from past books popping back up - on Mars!!! The drama!!! I could not have been more attached to this series and I am quite fond of the author....I thank you Jack for this amazing series and taking me along on Nikki's journey. It was an "out of this world" experience!!! LOL....I am so very sad to see this amazing story end but I will say that it couldn't have ended any better then it did! Ciao Nikki!!!
October 22, 2019
Feels 3
Steam 5
Storyline 5
Overall Rating 5
Kindle eArc provided by Author
Reviewed by Ladyballs
I had such a hard time gathering my thoughts about this final installment of this series because I knew it was the final book. I have been a huge, huge fan since the first book and each one has gotten better and better. I believe I have stated before that I had thought this series was going in one direction after the first one and the storyline of a school shooting scenario but it turned into so so much more.
It has been such a roller coaster watching Nikki overcome all that she has been through and a highly emotional journey. Each book had me going from tears to laughing to fear to joy. From the school shooting plot to the bridge fiasco to her training (which was brutal) to her failed takeoff to now her wildest dream coming true. All of the characters along the way have added to her journey and each one was so pivotal in who she has become. While some were left back in earlier books, new ones only added to her journey.
In this final book, Nikki is one take off away from her dream of landing on Mars. However, her takeoff does not go as planned and she finds herself back on Earth. Until she gets the most unbelievable phone call from THE Elon Musk. Musk wants her to join his crew on a mission to Mars. Naturally, Nikki wastes no time in accepting and she is on her way. The crew and she bond immediately and seamlessly. I loved watching them all turn into a family.
Their trip from preparation to take-off to landing and the heartache that follows had me at the edge of my seat. I needed Nikki to prevail. I needed to see her dream come to fruition. So much happens from take off to the end of the book and all I will say is my tears flowed freely and frequently. I smiled until my face hurt and my heart was happy for Nikki. Getting to Mars was her dream of dreams and she endured more then one person should take but she stood her ground and pushed on with her head held high. She matured in so many ways and became someone she could be proud of. Her life had purpose and she left no stone unturned. She made some enemies along the way and turned most people into family. She may have left behind Earth but found a whole new world on Mars. It was entrancing to see how life on Mars progressed over time and even more interesting seeing characters from past books popping back up on Mars. The drama! I could not have been more attached to this series and I am quite fond of the author. I thank Jack for this amazing series and taking me along on Nikki's journey. It was an "out of this world" experience! I am so very sad to see this amazing story end but I will say that it couldn't have ended any better then it did! Ciao Nikki.
Steam 5
Storyline 5
Overall Rating 5
Kindle eArc provided by Author
Reviewed by Ladyballs
I had such a hard time gathering my thoughts about this final installment of this series because I knew it was the final book. I have been a huge, huge fan since the first book and each one has gotten better and better. I believe I have stated before that I had thought this series was going in one direction after the first one and the storyline of a school shooting scenario but it turned into so so much more.
It has been such a roller coaster watching Nikki overcome all that she has been through and a highly emotional journey. Each book had me going from tears to laughing to fear to joy. From the school shooting plot to the bridge fiasco to her training (which was brutal) to her failed takeoff to now her wildest dream coming true. All of the characters along the way have added to her journey and each one was so pivotal in who she has become. While some were left back in earlier books, new ones only added to her journey.
In this final book, Nikki is one take off away from her dream of landing on Mars. However, her takeoff does not go as planned and she finds herself back on Earth. Until she gets the most unbelievable phone call from THE Elon Musk. Musk wants her to join his crew on a mission to Mars. Naturally, Nikki wastes no time in accepting and she is on her way. The crew and she bond immediately and seamlessly. I loved watching them all turn into a family.
Their trip from preparation to take-off to landing and the heartache that follows had me at the edge of my seat. I needed Nikki to prevail. I needed to see her dream come to fruition. So much happens from take off to the end of the book and all I will say is my tears flowed freely and frequently. I smiled until my face hurt and my heart was happy for Nikki. Getting to Mars was her dream of dreams and she endured more then one person should take but she stood her ground and pushed on with her head held high. She matured in so many ways and became someone she could be proud of. Her life had purpose and she left no stone unturned. She made some enemies along the way and turned most people into family. She may have left behind Earth but found a whole new world on Mars. It was entrancing to see how life on Mars progressed over time and even more interesting seeing characters from past books popping back up on Mars. The drama! I could not have been more attached to this series and I am quite fond of the author. I thank Jack for this amazing series and taking me along on Nikki's journey. It was an "out of this world" experience! I am so very sad to see this amazing story end but I will say that it couldn't have ended any better then it did! Ciao Nikki.
October 5, 2019
Mars Colony Agatha by Jack Chaucer is scheduled to be released on November 1, 2019. It will be the fourth installment in the Nikki Janicek series, a series that follows the near-death adventures of Nicole Janicek. Thank you NetGalley for giving me this digital ARC in exchange for an honest review
I thought this was a really good adventure book. I haven’t read the rest of the series, so I began feeling slightly lost and confused at the wild stories and crazy adventures Nikki kept describing from her past. However, I enjoyed the mystery element this added and piecing together her backstory. The romance side to the book wasn’t laid on too heavily, something that I appreciate. Something I don’t like is when a romance detracts from the other elements of the plot. Additionally, the storyline itself was interesting and not too predictable, and the base personalities of the characters were easy to relate to. Of course, most of us can't claim to have survived a failed attempt to Mars, but Nikki had a positive mindset and didn’t let this stop her from achieving her biggest dream.
The only complaints I have are about character development and some funky pacing towards the end. Aside from the antagonists, it was hard to tell how much or even if the trip and experience on Mars changed our main characters. From the beginning, they seemed to get along and they are just as close at the end as well.
Overall, I recommend this book, even as a stand-alone! It’s a quick read I think is good for young teens (some mature language) who enjoy adventure novels with slight romance.
I thought this was a really good adventure book. I haven’t read the rest of the series, so I began feeling slightly lost and confused at the wild stories and crazy adventures Nikki kept describing from her past. However, I enjoyed the mystery element this added and piecing together her backstory. The romance side to the book wasn’t laid on too heavily, something that I appreciate. Something I don’t like is when a romance detracts from the other elements of the plot. Additionally, the storyline itself was interesting and not too predictable, and the base personalities of the characters were easy to relate to. Of course, most of us can't claim to have survived a failed attempt to Mars, but Nikki had a positive mindset and didn’t let this stop her from achieving her biggest dream.
The only complaints I have are about character development and some funky pacing towards the end. Aside from the antagonists, it was hard to tell how much or even if the trip and experience on Mars changed our main characters. From the beginning, they seemed to get along and they are just as close at the end as well.
Overall, I recommend this book, even as a stand-alone! It’s a quick read I think is good for young teens (some mature language) who enjoy adventure novels with slight romance.
September 12, 2019
This book was my first entry into Nikki's world, thanks to being gifted an ARC of it.
And I adored the story! Mars Colony Agatha, although beloging to a series, can be read alone and easily. The story started with a screw-up that could have gone really bad, but instead gave Nikki an adventure of a lifetime.
I loved the characters and going to Mars with them, "meeting" Elon Musk (I wish) and his connection to the team, and supporting the group in wanting to strike the stupid media with their "Then there were none". It was a enjoyable read, with comic relief in the right measure (said by someone whose team uses comic relief in everything in our risky profession), and while I don't read much sci-fi spacey novels, I loved this one.
I only wish it was a bit bigger, I want to know more about educating a baby in space and what can happen, and with some character growth between the two groups in Mars, since they had a tension filled past. Still, in unpredictability and tragedies, we get a taste of hope and happiness in the middle of space, and gave me hope that everything can get better, even with tragic pasts.
(ps. trying to be as much spoiler free as I can)
And I adored the story! Mars Colony Agatha, although beloging to a series, can be read alone and easily. The story started with a screw-up that could have gone really bad, but instead gave Nikki an adventure of a lifetime.
I loved the characters and going to Mars with them, "meeting" Elon Musk (I wish) and his connection to the team, and supporting the group in wanting to strike the stupid media with their "Then there were none". It was a enjoyable read, with comic relief in the right measure (said by someone whose team uses comic relief in everything in our risky profession), and while I don't read much sci-fi spacey novels, I loved this one.
I only wish it was a bit bigger, I want to know more about educating a baby in space and what can happen, and with some character growth between the two groups in Mars, since they had a tension filled past. Still, in unpredictability and tragedies, we get a taste of hope and happiness in the middle of space, and gave me hope that everything can get better, even with tragic pasts.
(ps. trying to be as much spoiler free as I can)
August 16, 2019
A Fun, Entertaining Read
In "Mars Colony Agatha: Nikki Red," Jack Chaucer gives the reader a fun, digestible, entertaining story of space exploration and adventure.
He's done his research, and manages to successfully walk the line between technical descriptions of the material and practices used on an interplanetary voyage and making those descriptions understandable. His characters are relatable, and the plot engaging enough to keep a reader entertained even if they haven't kept up with the adventures of Nikki Janicek. I hadn't read any of his previous novels and was able to follow along just fine.
If sometimes the dialogue seems a bit corny or the pacing feels a bit underdeveloped, that certainly doesn't come a the expense of Chacuer's storytelling. It's an imaginative take on colonizing Mars, after all. A good, fun read, "Mars Colony Agatha" is enjoyable from start to finish.
In "Mars Colony Agatha: Nikki Red," Jack Chaucer gives the reader a fun, digestible, entertaining story of space exploration and adventure.
He's done his research, and manages to successfully walk the line between technical descriptions of the material and practices used on an interplanetary voyage and making those descriptions understandable. His characters are relatable, and the plot engaging enough to keep a reader entertained even if they haven't kept up with the adventures of Nikki Janicek. I hadn't read any of his previous novels and was able to follow along just fine.
If sometimes the dialogue seems a bit corny or the pacing feels a bit underdeveloped, that certainly doesn't come a the expense of Chacuer's storytelling. It's an imaginative take on colonizing Mars, after all. A good, fun read, "Mars Colony Agatha" is enjoyable from start to finish.
September 28, 2019
Mars Colony Agatha is a fascinating story about six astronauts that leave to Earth to colonize Mars, knowing they will likely never return. I would love to be on a team like this and be one of the first people on a distant planet. Some great moments in this story force you to keep reading, and it makes you think about what life would be like. Nicole and Sunny are especially strong characters that brought a lot of life into the story.
I would recommend this book to anyone interested in stories about colonizing new planets and the dangers of space travel.
I would recommend this book to anyone interested in stories about colonizing new planets and the dangers of space travel.
December 1, 2019
This was a fun read and a nice adventure into the not-so-distant future. Even though books about travel to Mars are becoming a dime a dozen lately, I still really enjoyed it; the pacing was great as well. The ending was tied up in a neat little bow, but I've been reading some heavy stuff lately so I didn't mind that too much. Glad I won this from a Goodreads giveaway...I'll probably check out the series' first three books as well!
March 30, 2020
I did really enjoy this book, it is a light-hearted less sciencey story then The Martian. I picked up this series with this book and while I can see the advantages of reading the first three book it was written well were I didn't think that I was lost and confused.
This isn't a long read at 272 pages but was an enjoyable read. I will definitely be adding Jack Chaucers other books onto the to read list.
This isn't a long read at 272 pages but was an enjoyable read. I will definitely be adding Jack Chaucers other books onto the to read list.
April 4, 2020
Loved it
It's the first book I've read by this author and it kept me engaged and i couldn't put it down. Nite i need to go back and read the earlier books. Little pieces of Nikki's backstory were mentioned here and I want to know the whole background now.
For those who care there is language but it's on par with the sci-fi genre so to be expected.
It's the first book I've read by this author and it kept me engaged and i couldn't put it down. Nite i need to go back and read the earlier books. Little pieces of Nikki's backstory were mentioned here and I want to know the whole background now.
For those who care there is language but it's on par with the sci-fi genre so to be expected.
April 11, 2020
I received this as a free book from Goodreads and really enjoyed it. I had not realized it was part of a series when I started it. I think that they did a good job of trying to give the back stories to the previous books. I am going to go back and read these now, however to get the full story.
April 2, 2020
Well written. Good plot development and characters.
June 7, 2020
Great Sci-Fi.
This was a real page turner. Hard to put down. kept my interest throughout.. A nice job in filling in characters from obvious prior books.
Great timing with current Space-X acconplishments.
This was a real page turner. Hard to put down. kept my interest throughout.. A nice job in filling in characters from obvious prior books.
Great timing with current Space-X acconplishments.
October 20, 2019
"Forget the lies, remember the truth
Sing something if it means something to you
Invest in the love, give it your best
Follow what's in the left side of your chest
Be ready for highs, be ready for lows
A dream is a dream until you go
Make some mistakes, don't forget who you are
Don't reach for the moon, we're going to Mars!"
(Lyrics excerpt from "Going to Mars" by Judah & The Lion)
© Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
These lyrics reminded me so much of the personality and attitude of the young protagonist Nikki Janicek, and the overall feel of the story. What a comfortable, believable, satisfying read this book was. Intelligent science fiction, yet not confusing, or overwhelming, simply enjoyable. May be read as a standalone easily, but I would recommend reading the previous novels for maximum enjoyment. I know I'm going to.
The author skillfully pulls you on deck with the crew. The other characters in the story are lively, Interesting and easy to care about. I hope Mr. Chaucer writes more in this series, because he's so good with this universe. In this book, the story flowed and didn't feel forced. His characters were alive and unique; he allowed them simply to be, naturally, not forcing them to fit in a mold.
I will be reading anything that has Jack Chaucer's name on it from now on.
Sing something if it means something to you
Invest in the love, give it your best
Follow what's in the left side of your chest
Be ready for highs, be ready for lows
A dream is a dream until you go
Make some mistakes, don't forget who you are
Don't reach for the moon, we're going to Mars!"
(Lyrics excerpt from "Going to Mars" by Judah & The Lion)
© Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
These lyrics reminded me so much of the personality and attitude of the young protagonist Nikki Janicek, and the overall feel of the story. What a comfortable, believable, satisfying read this book was. Intelligent science fiction, yet not confusing, or overwhelming, simply enjoyable. May be read as a standalone easily, but I would recommend reading the previous novels for maximum enjoyment. I know I'm going to.
The author skillfully pulls you on deck with the crew. The other characters in the story are lively, Interesting and easy to care about. I hope Mr. Chaucer writes more in this series, because he's so good with this universe. In this book, the story flowed and didn't feel forced. His characters were alive and unique; he allowed them simply to be, naturally, not forcing them to fit in a mold.
I will be reading anything that has Jack Chaucer's name on it from now on.
October 2, 2019
This is a fast-paced science fiction story about a young woman with a troubled past named Nikki. She almost sporadically joins up with a second mission to Mars after the one she was initially on suffers from technical difficulties, ones that cause a fiery ocean landing. Her new team nonetheless welcomes her as part of the crew as they make the journey to the red planet.
This is generally an interesting tale. However, there are a plenty of backstory elements that are only mentioned in passing during the first quarter of the story that probably could have done with a bit more exposition to keep readers from being confused. It reads a lot a sequel, which it is, but it’s a bit harder to follow if you haven’t read the previous novels.
At some points, the main characters get more than a bit silly, which isn’t what readers might naturally expect from astronauts who are going on a deadly serious space mission. It’s not enough to be completely off-putting and it does give them a bit more personality, but it does still seem a bit odd at times.
On the other hand, it’s a good story and definitely worth the $3 Kindle price.
This is generally an interesting tale. However, there are a plenty of backstory elements that are only mentioned in passing during the first quarter of the story that probably could have done with a bit more exposition to keep readers from being confused. It reads a lot a sequel, which it is, but it’s a bit harder to follow if you haven’t read the previous novels.
At some points, the main characters get more than a bit silly, which isn’t what readers might naturally expect from astronauts who are going on a deadly serious space mission. It’s not enough to be completely off-putting and it does give them a bit more personality, but it does still seem a bit odd at times.
On the other hand, it’s a good story and definitely worth the $3 Kindle price.
May 25, 2020
One day soon
Not my typical style/ genre of book but was still a great read. I enjoyed the various backgrounds of the characters and the multiple twists and turns that the story takes.
Not my typical style/ genre of book but was still a great read. I enjoyed the various backgrounds of the characters and the multiple twists and turns that the story takes.
August 1, 2019
An excellent read that had me engrossed from the outset. I enjoy science fiction but what I really appreciated about this novel was that I was never overwhelmed with scientific jargon, concepts and theories that usually go over my head – often a frustration I have with sci-fi.
The novel follows the story of Nikki, an American astronaut whose chief aim in life is to become amongst ‘the first humans to blast off for Mars or die trying.’ It has a great pace and the dialogue is great. You quickly become invested in the characters and are willing them on to success. Along the way, the story includes enough flashbacks to add a little darkness and extra tension as you uncover the protagonist’s backstory.
I thoroughly recommend this book and my only complaint was it ended too soon. I am hoping for a next installment as some point in the future.
The novel follows the story of Nikki, an American astronaut whose chief aim in life is to become amongst ‘the first humans to blast off for Mars or die trying.’ It has a great pace and the dialogue is great. You quickly become invested in the characters and are willing them on to success. Along the way, the story includes enough flashbacks to add a little darkness and extra tension as you uncover the protagonist’s backstory.
I thoroughly recommend this book and my only complaint was it ended too soon. I am hoping for a next installment as some point in the future.
August 12, 2019
“Mars Colony Agatha: Nikki Red” is an entertaining novel set a few years into the future as humans begin to make strides towards colonizing Mars for the first time. After overcoming much trauma in her past, young Nicole finds herself ready for the adventure when she is offered a spot on the first ship to Mars. Throughout the story, the crew faces setbacks, tragedy, and elation as they begin their colony and are gradually joined by more people from Earth. Although it seems to be a few books into a series about Nikki, it can easily be read without knowing the background story. The unique characters, realistic descriptions, and well conveyed emotions come together to make for an engaging story.
October 17, 2019
Yet another amazing book by Jack!! This one just like the others is filled with sadness and happiness courageousness and above all friendship. In this book although there were so many people that were against each other they were equal amounts with each other and that is so inspiring. It really made me feel good that so many people put their anger and frustrations on the back burner to come above and beyond for everyone of the members on the planet. I'm really not a big sci-fi buff but Jack really stole me with the very first book of the series and has kept me wanting more with every book that he published in this series. I look forward to reading more of his work and learning more about his genius brain. #teamnikki
October 2, 2019
With recent news stories about space colonization, authors have filled the shelves with exciting adventures and new civilizations. Jack Chaucer’s series on the colonization of Mars is no exception. His story, however, gives a fresh new look at characters. The novel is exciting enough to grab attention of young adults while providing sound plots and mystery that any age will enjoy. The one complaint is continuation. While the book is a couple novels into the series, it reads like book number one. Fresh content is good, but readers also want to feel as though they are progressing into the story.
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